Private health bill appears doomed without change

Key points

• The Greens have signalled they will not support the federal government's private health insurance changes in their current form. The proposed changes would reduce the rebate for Australians aged 65 and over, saving about $3 billion for aged care.
• A parliamentary inquiry has recommended the legislation pass, but the Coalition and Greens have raised concerns about the impact on older Australians and the public health system.
• The Greens are considering amendments, such as exempting pensioners from the changes.